Dallas area toll rises... Militants killed... US hits IS targets

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DALLAS (AP) — Areas around Dallas are reeling after tornadoes killed at least 11 people and caused significant damage. It's the latest following days of severe deadly weather in the Southeast. Forecasters say several tornadoes hit near Dallas after dark and officials are expecting a clearer picture later today. In West Texas and much of New Mexico, as much as 16 inches of snow could fall.

BEIRUT (AP) — Syrian activists say 17 militants have been killed after gathering in a booby-trapped village. Activists say government forces set off explosives planted at a farm where Islamic rebel factions were gathering. Syria's state news agency reports that several fighters of the Islamic Muthana Movement were killed and two of their "dens were demolished at Kfar Shams." The latest killings deal another blow to Syria's Islamic rebels, just days after the assassination of a powerful rebel leader.

WASHINGTON (AP) — Christmas day was busy for U.S. military pilots involved in the fight against the Islamic State group. The Pentagon says the United States hit IS targets in Iraq and Syria with 17 airstrikes using fighter aircraft, bombers and remotely controlled aircraft. A dozen strikes were in Iraq. All US aircraft returned safely.

VENTURA, Calif. (AP) — Fire crews have managed to block a wind-whipped wildfire before it destroyed any homes along the Southern California coast. A scenic highway has been reopened and an evacuation order lifted for dozens of homes. The 1,238-acre blaze in the steep foothills northwest of Ventura is 60 percent contained.

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) — Management at a Louisville mall made a decision to close early after several disturbances by unruly teens. According to the St. Matthews Police Department, the incidents at Mall St. Matthews may have involved as many as 1,000 to 2,000 teens. According to the SMPD there were several fights inside the mall and they may have spread outside.